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TLDR
Worried about your A level results? Don’t stress — whether through resits, Clearing, alternative qualifications, or new career paths, there are plenty of flexible options to help you move forward.
Worried that your A levels results won’t go quite as planned? You’re not alone, and most importantly, if your results aren’t what you hoped for, it isn’t the end of the road.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through your next steps, answering the most common questions like “What happens if I fail an A level?” and “Can I still go to university?” so you can make informed decisions with confidence. And the right choice for you.
What Happens If I Fail an A level?
We know this can feel disheartening but failing an A level doesn’t mean your future is over. Many students go on to achieve their goals through alternative routes. Whether you failed one subject or simply didn’t meet your predicted grades, you still have plenty of options:
- If you don’t agree with the results, you can appeal or request a review of your exam results.
- Many students choose to retake their A levels the following year. NEC offer Fast Track A levels as well as traditional A level courses.
- You may decide to consider alternative qualifications such as Access to Higher Education courses.
- It still may be possible to find foundation year degrees which have lower entry requirements.
- You can enter Clearing to find a different university course that accepts your current grades.
“Clearing is how unis and colleges fill any places they still have on their courses.” – UCAS
Is a D in A level a Fail?
Whilst you may not be proud of achieving a D grade, a D grade at A level is technically a pass.
A levels are graded from A* to E, with anything below an E considered a fail (U). However, it’s good to keep in mind that depending on the course and university, a D grade might not meet the entry requirements, which is why students sometimes feel they’ve “failed” even with a pass grade.
Recheck your desired course requirements or get in touch with admissions to confirm whether you meet the mark.
What Is the Lowest Pass at A level?
The lowest official pass at A level is an E grade. It means you’ve gained enough marks to pass the course, but be mindful that it may limit your options for certain university degrees or career paths. That said, many colleges and employers value persistence and growth — especially if you take action to improve your grade later.
In these cases, it’s always an option to get in touch with your desired university directly and they will be able to advise you.
Do Universities Know If You Resit A levels?
The simple answer is yes. Universities can see on your UCAS application if you’ve resat an A level.
But don’t panic!
Many universities (including top institutions) accept resits and focus on your final achieved grades. Taking the opportunity to retake your A level demonstrates your resilience and commitment, this can work in your favour.
How Much Does Resitting an A level Cost?
Resitting an A level is a great option for many students however doing this privately can cost anywhere between £300 to £700 per subject, depending on whether you choose to study independently, through a college, or via an online provider.
In many cases, costs usually cover tuition, resources, and exam entry fees — though some providers, like NEC, offer Fast Track A level programmes that let you resit in just one year or even a few months.
“I have finished my A level studies with NEC, and I am so glad I chose this college. The tutors were always friendly and their feedback was immensely useful. Whenever I had an enquiry, they were quick to respond and very helpful.” – NEC Student
Is It Worth Resitting an A level?
Everyone is different so this really depends on your individual goals. If your grades are stopping you from getting into your chosen university or career path, then resitting is definitely worth considering.
Here are a few reasons you might decide to resit:
- You narrowly missed the grade you needed.
- You’ve since developed stronger study habits or received support.
- You want to boost your chances in future job or university applications.
Remember, resitting takes time, commitment, and money — so make sure you’re motivated and supported. The right learning environment can make all the difference.
What Is a Fast Track A level Programme?
A Fast Track A level lets you complete your studies in less than a year — often in 6 to 9 months. These are ideal for students who:
- Are motivated to focus intensely on one or two particular subjects.
- Want to resit quickly and apply for university the following year.
- Prefer flexible online learning that fits around other responsibilities.
Fast Track A levels are a popular choice for those who don’t want to delay their goals and are ready to make a fresh start.
Can I Still Get a Job If I Fail My A levels?
Of course!
While some employers may ask for A level grades, many do not — especially in entry-level roles or industries where skills, experience, and attitude are more important.
You can:
- Build up work experience, apprenticeships, or vocational training.
- Gain qualifications in other ways (such as functional skills or diplomas).
Consider reapplying to university after improving your grades or pursuing a different path altogether.
Many successful people didn’t take a traditional route. It’s what you do next that counts.
You’ve Got Options
Missing your A level targets can feel devastating in the moment — but it doesn’t define you. Whether you choose to resit, reapply, or reroute, there are multiple ways to get back on track.
What matters most is finding the path that’s right for you — and that starts with knowing your options.
If you’re considering resitting A levels or exploring online learning, NEC offers flexible, supported pathways that help students bounce back stronger. You’re not alone — and your next chapter starts here.
Feeling stress about the upcoming A level results day? Here is a flyer to help you tackle those anxieties.